Ascension Genesys Hospital
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Pet Therapy Program
The Ascension Genesys Pet Therapy program was developed to help reduce stress and anxiety and provide comfort to those getting care at Ascension Genesys.. The program currently has 20 dog volunteers and their human handlers.
Therapy animals have shown many health benefits. They help reduce stress and anxiety in patients, resulting in lower blood pressure. They also bring happiness, increasing levels of endorphins and oxytocin in the body.
To be a volunteer in the Ascension Genesys Pet Therapy Program, handlers and their dogs must have successfully completed a recognized Pet Therapy certification program. Recognized pet therapy programs require all canine partners to obtain the AKC Canine Good Citizen Certificate and certification as a therapy dog. The dog must demonstrate good manners, be comfortable at all times around crowds and noise, walk calmly on a leash and follow basic commands. In addition, the volunteer and dog must be interviewed for fit with the Ascension Genesys program and keep current on required canine immunizations.
Recognized pet therapy certification programs:
- Mid-Michigan Therapy Dogs http://www.midmichigantherapydogs.com/
- Therapy Dogs International www.tdi-dog.org
If you would like more information on the Ascension Genesys Pet Therapy Program, please call Volunteer Services at 810-606-5100.
If you and your dog are already certified and want to volunteer at Ascension Genesys, you can learn more and apply on our volunteer page.